How often do you utter those words? Think those words about yourself? Well for me, like many others, it used to be very frequently. Whenever I found myself surrounded by intellectuals, academic’s, individuals that just seemed to have achieved amazing feats I would feel inferior.
Most days this ‘not good enough’ perspective drove me to be better, to do more, to develop my skills so I become enough. It was a positive driver for change. But occasionally, just very occasionally the nagging voice in my head turned negative and stopped me from performing at my best. This type of feeling along with others associated with imposture syndrome can affect up to 70% of us. Often many high achievers can be most affected. (Yes, that’s right, I’m classing myself as a high achiever. 😂) Also, did you know there were 5 types of Imposture Syndrome?
Recently though I had been concerned that this was affecting the view others had of me, my expertise, and my value as a business consultant to other organisations. I felt it was becoming detrimental to my business success. Indeed, others would comment on how I kept defending my knowledge and being a little ‘showy offy’ with my achievements and abilities. I was coming across in the wrong way.
This change in behavior might have been happening for some time, but I’d only just noticed. Towards the end of 2022, reflecting and preparing for 2023 I decide this needed to change. I wanted to understand to the root cause of this issue, change the mindset and develop better behaviors.
So, what did I do about it?
Firstly, I sought feedback from a close group of associates and mentors about whether they could see the issue affecting me.
Secondly, I had a series of conversations with a rapid transformation specialist. We decided to undergo some hypnotherapy to unearth the root cause of this issue. To find the limiting beliefs. The session was great and I followed it up by listening to a recording of the session each and every day. (I still listen to it now.)
Thirdly, I started to keep a daily journal. This journal audits my behavior, reflects on the positives from the day and reminds me of what I am grateful for. Its super quick. 3 questions.
What did you do that was ‘brilliant’ today?
List 3 positive/good things from the day
List 3 things you are grateful for
As a result of the above my mindset has changed. I understand I am enough. I value myself, & my expertise. I find myself not having to prove my credentials to others or brag about what I am great at. My abilities have really started to shine through. It’s not just me that has noticed the change; clients, friends and family members are also noticing the new and improved me. I really do believe that I am good enough, that I can do and be anything I want to be.
In this year of greatness, a year where I double down on helping/supporting/enabling as many people as I can live to their full & optimal potential. We need an many people as possible to understand if they have any limiting beliefs holding them back, ever feel like they are not good enough – this can be changed. It is important to spread this message far and wide.
You are enough!
You can be whatever you want? You can achieve great things. We all can.